Surrounded by two National Parks, jutting red rock cliffs, and the Colorado River, it's no wonder Moab is known as the Adventure Capital of the United States. Our Moab vacation rentals are prime real estate for outdoor enthusiasts, thrill seekers, and even photographers looking to catch that million dollar shot. But with so much going on in and around Moab, even homebodies can find something to get excited about.

Outdoor Recreation in Moab, UT

The entrance to magnificent Arches National Park is just five miles north of Moab, right off Highway 191. The Visitor Center is a fun place to stop and learn more about the stone arches found all over the park. There are many hiking trails in Arches National Park, half of which are easy enough for all ages!

Canyonlands National Park is a little more of a drive from Moab, but definitely worth it for expansive views of the Colorado and Green Rivers weaving their way through the slate canyons. Although Dead Horse Point State Park may seem small in comparison to its National Park neighbors, it's one place you absolutely must see! Be sure to bring your camera to capture the sheer beauty seen from overlooks and enjoy a nice hike or bike through the park. Visit nearby Newspaper Rock and see remains of the native culture in ancient petroglyphs etched in sandstone!

Although taking to the trail around this absolutely enchanting area can consume every moment of vacation, you might make time for other heart-pumping excitement, like mountain biking the famous Slickrock Trail, which takes you across smooth Navajo sandstone and offers a breathtaking overlook of the Colorado River! Other popular outdoor activities include rock climbing, 4-Wheel Driving, Hummer Safari, skydiving, and zip lining at Moab Adventure Center. For unique, encompassing vistas, book a sunset hot air balloon ride and fly to the sky!

Water Activities in Moab, UT

With the Colorado River close at hand, you'll definitely want to take a day or more to cool off and splash in the water. If you want someone to take all the stress of planning off your hands, simply book a rafting trip through a company like Adrift Adventures. Don't stress if a multi-day rafting adventure doesn't work for your group, though - there are plenty of other options, such as half-day trips to The "Daily" (an area northeast of Moab called Fisher Towers that is great for first-time rafters or short trips).

If rafting isn't your thing, pack a picnic lunch and park yourself on the shores of the river to play, or try out Ken's Lake Recreation Area just south in scenic Spanish Valley for kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, fishing, and more. The Moab Recreation and Aquatic Center is a brand new, 24,000 square-foot indoor and outdoor facility where all ages can enjoy plummeting down waterslides, swimming laps in the competition pool, and jumping off the high-dive.

Activities In Downtown Moab, UT

On those rare occasions you need a break from the great outdoors, take to one of Moab's fun indoor activities. Impress your travel companions with your bowling skills at Gravel Pit Lanes, then follow your strikes up with dinner at Sunset Grill if you're looking for fine dining or Sweet Cravings Bakery and Bistro for a more laid back meal. Even if food trucks aren't necessarily your thing, you won't want to miss catching Quesadilla Mobilla somewhere around town during your stay. Take a stroll through the heart of Moab on the Mill Creek Parkway and stop off at galleries, southwestern jewelry, and art shops, and grab a cool treat at Moyo frozen yogurt.

Of course, this fossil-filled town wouldn't be complete without the perfect Moab Rock Shop. Visitors could easily spend hours pouring over petrified wood, fossils (including dinosaur bones and teeth), minerals, and more! And this is just the spot to find that much-needed souvenir to remind you of an incredible stay at one of our cozy Moab vacation rentals.